Tragic Robin Williams was suffering the early onset of Parkinson’s disease before committing suicide, his widow has revealed.

In a statement released today, Susan Schneider said: "Robin's sobriety was intact and he was brave as he struggled with his own battles of depression, anxiety as well as early stages of Parkinson’s Disease, which he was not yet ready to share publicly."

"It is our hope in the wake of Robin’s tragic passing, that others will find the strength to seek the care and support they need to treat whatever battles they are facing so they may feel less afraid," Williams' wife of three years, continued.

(Image: FameFlynet)

"Robin spent so much of his life helping others," the statement read.

"Whether he was entertaining millions on stage, film or television, our troops on the frontlines, or comforting a sick child — Robin wanted us to laugh and to feel less afraid.

"Since his passing, all of us who loved Robin have found some solace in the tremendous outpouring of affection and admiration for him from the millions of people whose lives he touched.

"His greatest legacy, besides his three children, is the joy and happiness he offered to others, particularly to those fighting personal battles."

Despite Williams' recent admission to rehab in Minnesota this year, Schneider insists that her husband was sober at the time of his death.

During a police press conference on Tuesday, Marin County sheriff's department Lieutenant Keith Boyd, said that Williams had been last seen at around 10.30pm on Sunday night by his third wife Susan at their home before she went to bed.

It was not confirmed by the police that it was a normal arrangement for the couple to sleep separately, but the Lt. Boyd said that Williams' wife did not know what time the actor had gone to bed, and his body was discovered in a separate room in the house.

Schneider returned to the family home shortly after emergency personnel arrived at the house, where they pronounced Williams dead at 12:02 local time.

Police officials said that Schneider was made aware of the actor’s death prior to returning to their home.

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Following her tragic loss, Schneider paid loving tribute to her ''husband and my best friend" - as her superstar partner was found dead.

She said: "This morning, I lost my husband and my best friend, while the world lost one of its most beloved artists and beautiful human beings.

"I am utterly heartbroken.

"On behalf of the Robin's family, we are asking for privacy during our time of profound grief.

(Image: Getty)

"As he is remembered, it is our hope the focus will not be on Robin's death, but on the countless moments of joy and laughter he game to millions."